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Victims and Witnesses: CPS Commitments to Support

Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.

All CPS guidance

AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.

This CPS prosecution guidance outlines the commitments and principles the Crown Prosecution Service follows to support victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process. It emphasizes the importance of effective participation from victims and witnesses, addressing their specific needs based on the circumstances of their cases. Additionally, the guidance details various categories of offences and special considerations for vulnerable groups, ensuring that their rights and well-being are prioritized at all stages.

Key points

  • The CPS commits to supporting victims and witnesses through the criminal justice process.
  • Prosecutors must consider victims' views when making prosecution decisions.
  • Victims are entitled to legal protections and special measures during court proceedings.
  • The CPS recognizes the particular challenges faced by vulnerable witnesses.
  • Meaningful support and communication is provided to bereaved families in murder and manslaughter cases.
  • Collaboration with local support agencies is essential for effective advocacy.
  • Prosecutors must ensure victims and witnesses are treated with respect and dignity in court.

Public-interest factors

  • Public safety considerations
  • The seriousness of the crime
  • The vulnerability of the victim
  • Impact on the community
  • Previous history of the offender
  • Need to deter further offences
Domestic abuseRapeCases involving children as victims and witnessesCrimes against older peopleHate crimeForced Marriage and Honour-based CrimesCrimes against victims with learning disabilitiesCrimes against victims with mental health issuesHate crime: racist or religiousHate crime: homophobic and transphobic
Read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk
Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 8 February 2022 · Next review due: 8 August 2022

This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.